Podcast Summary: This Is Woman's Work with Nicole Kalil
Episode: "How Is Your Spiritual Health?" with Dr. Lisa Miller | 287
Release Date: March 5, 2025

Introduction

In episode 287 of This Is Woman's Work, host Nicole Kalil engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Lisa Miller, a New York Times bestselling author and professor specializing in spirituality and psychology. Titled "How Is Your Spiritual Health?", the episode delves into the often-overlooked dimension of spiritual well-being, exploring its significance in the holistic health of women today.

Exploring Spiritual Health

Nicole opens the discussion by contrasting the prevalent focus on physical appearance and superficial health metrics with the deeper, more authentic pursuit of overall well-being. She expresses frustration with societal pressures that emphasize aesthetics over genuine health, highlighting the paradox of being more connected digitally yet feeling increasingly isolated.

Nicole Kalil (B) articulates this sentiment compellingly:

"We want more stuff, faster. We're somehow more connected and yet feel more alone."
(01:00)

She introduces the concept of spiritual health as a vital, yet underexplored, facet of overall well-being. Emphasizing that spiritual health encompasses more than religious affiliations, Nicole sets the stage for Dr. Miller to elaborate on its broader implications.

Defining Spiritual Health

Dr. Lisa Miller provides a comprehensive definition of spiritual health, distinguishing it from religion while acknowledging overlaps for many individuals. She explains that spirituality is an inherent human capacity, cultivated by both innate traits and environmental factors.

Dr. Lisa Miller (C) states:

"Spirituality exists in every single one of us, whether or not we are religious."
(04:32)

She delves into scientific perspectives, noting that spiritual capacity is partly inborn and substantially shaped by one's environment. Dr. Miller underscores that while all humans possess the potential for spirituality, women are particularly adept at nurturing this aspect of themselves.

The Scientific Basis of Spirituality

Dr. Miller discusses research findings that highlight the neurological underpinnings of spiritual experiences. She explains that specific brain circuits are activated during spiritual or transcendent experiences, reinforcing the universal nature of spirituality.

"We have even gone into the brain and tracked the circuits in every human being's brain through which we can feel and know this transcendent relationship through which we're loved and held."
(07:00)

Furthermore, she emphasizes that spirituality fosters a moral imperative in women, guiding their interactions and leadership roles with compassion and integrity.

The Third Wave of Feminism: Spiritual Voice

Nicole introduces the idea of a "third wave of feminism" centered on the empowerment of women's spiritual voices. Dr. Miller elaborates on this concept, arguing that embracing and expressing spiritual insights can lead to societal renewal.

Dr. Miller (C) explains:

"The third wave of feminism right now is to exercise and strengthen and bring out loud our spiritual voice. Because as women, we will be the ones to renew society."
(12:50)

She advocates for women to trust their intuitions and synchronicities, positing that these spiritual insights are reliable guides in both personal and professional realms.

Practical Steps to Enhance Spiritual Health

When asked how listeners can cultivate their spiritual health amidst life's challenges, Dr. Miller offers actionable advice:

1. Trust Your Inner Knowing:

   "Trust that whisper of a hunch. Invite yourself. Be curious to trust that whisper of a hunch."
   (23:18)

2. Embrace Curiosity and Openness:
   She encourages adopting a quest-oriented mindset, remaining open to unexpected guidance and the presence of "trail angels"—individuals who provide pivotal support and insights.

3. Create Supportive Communities:

   "Invite a group of women, 4, 6, 8 women, to share each in their own voice... We don't need to be spiritual identical twins to support each other on the path."
   (25:18)

Dr. Miller highlights the importance of diverse spiritual expressions within supportive groups, fostering collective growth and understanding.

Overcoming Modern Challenges Through Spirituality

The conversation touches on contemporary issues such as increased rates of depression and addiction among women. Dr. Miller posits that strengthening spiritual health serves as a powerful antidote to these challenges.

Dr. Miller (C) asserts:

"There's nothing as protective against the diseases of despair as a strong personal spiritual life."
(17:01)

She critiques the modern illusion of human control, advocating for a shift towards embracing spiritual guidance as a pathway to resilience and emotional well-being.

Conclusion: Embracing Wholeness Through Spiritual Health

Nicole wraps up the episode by reinforcing the essential role of spiritual health in achieving holistic well-being. She emphasizes that spiritual health is a personal journey, unique to each individual, and integral to feeling whole and authentic.

"Exploring your spiritual health isn't about becoming someone else's version of enlightened... It's about finding what connects you, grounds you, helps to make sense of this wild, chaotic and beautiful world and your place in it."
(27:42)

Nicole encourages listeners to believe in themselves and their innate spiritual capacities, advocating for a balanced approach to health that honors physical, mental, emotional, financial, social, and spiritual dimensions.

Notable Quotes

• Nicole Kalil (B):

  "We are cutting through the noise to focus on what truly matters for our collective well-being."
  (02:15)

• Dr. Lisa Miller (C):

  "Spiritual health is the foundation upon which all other aspects of our lives are built."
  (05:50)

• Nicole Kalil (B):

  "Believe in something. Believe in yourself. Practice faith and trust that whatever power created you lives within you."
  (27:38)

Final Thoughts

This episode of This Is Woman's Work serves as a compelling exploration of spiritual health, particularly in the context of women's lives. Through insightful dialogue with Dr. Lisa Miller, Nicole Kalil underscores the necessity of nurturing one's spiritual well-being as a cornerstone of comprehensive health. Listeners are left with actionable steps and an inspired perspective on integrating spirituality into their daily lives, fostering a sense of wholeness and empowerment.

Learn More:

• Visit Nicole Kalil's website at nicolekalil.com
• Follow Dr. Lisa Miller on Instagram @DrLisaMiller
• Explore Dr. Miller's books: The Spiritual Child and The Awakened Brain